Source: Fox News
Summary
Graham Platner, a Democratic Senate candidate in Maine, had a “perfectly cordial” conversation with Sen. Chuck Schumer after becoming the party’s presumptive nominee. Platner, who is backed by progressive senators, said he still wouldn’t support Schumer as Senate Democratic leader. Platner is running against Republican Sen. Susan Collins in a competitive race that could determine control of the Senate. Collins believes Platner is too far to the left for Maine voters, while Platner charges that Collins is too “radical” for supporting corporate interests and foreign wars.
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As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
Graham Platner and Chuck Schumer had a cordial conversation, despite Platner’s previous statements against Schumer’s leadership. Platner’s campaign is focused on an economically populist agenda, targeting corporate influences and advocating for the working class. Collins is already facing criticism for her support of corporate interests and foreign wars. Platner’s past comments on Reddit have resurfaced, including a 2013 post about rape and a 2007 tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol. Platner has apologized for the comments and covered up the tattoo. The Republican party is already attacking Platner with ads, but he remains confident that the people of Maine will see through the negative campaigns.
Platner’s energy plan, which includes eliminating the national gas and diesel tax, is central to his campaign. He believes energy costs are an “existential crisis” for working families in Maine.
The conversation between Schumer and Platner didn’t mention Platner’s lack of support for Schumer’s leadership.
Platner’s campaign is part of a larger trend of progressive candidates challenging the Democratic establishment.
The Maine Senate race is one of several competitive races that could determine control of the Senate.
Platner’s past as a Marine and Army veteran is being used to counterattack against Republican criticism.
The use of negative ads is becoming a central issue in the campaign, with Platner accusing Republicans of trying to distract from the real issues facing Maine voters.
